"A mixed bag, but hopefully a little critique might..."

Admitted for laparascopic surgery for an inguinal hernia, initially I was greeted by a fairly surly receptionist but soon after the staff preparing each patient were friendly and polite, and I could not really fault the treatment I received, especially from the surgeon assisting the consultant. Very nice chap indeed. The same was true when I was being prepared for my operation, although the anaesthetist did take me a bit unawares with the anaesthetic as I was chatting to one of the theatre nurses on the other side of the trolley from him, and not knowing I was actually being anaesthetised caused me to become momentarily concerned until I realised what was actually happening. (Would have been nice to be told it was about to be administered in truth. But that's a minor point). Post-op, however, was not so good. Following what I think may have been a handover, staff were brisk. Moaned about the size and weight of the bag I had brought in with me, even though this only contained an extra set of night wear when contrasted with their in their own hospital admission leaflet, and a couple of books. And when it came to changing despite being unable to lift anything (not recommended when you have had hernia surgery), there was a clear expectation that I should lift this from the box provided to get to my clothes, and even to carry this out upon my discharge. As a result I ended sat on a bed with my gown falling off, still suffering the effects of the anaesthetic, unable to get my clothes, and with the curtain drawn round, no way to call for a nurse unless I shouted. When I was finally assisted to get my clothes, I was still so dizzy that I nearly fell head first onto the wall. (Almost a bit slapstick in a way). Sadly the chair still had a heavy box upon it with my kit in which I was unable to lift, and the bed was so high it was easier said than done to get back into bed to try and steady myself before trying again. Finally this was capped off with being discharged whilst still pretty dizzy (from an overheard conversation getting the last two beds free was a priority), a further surly moment because I asked for my bag to be carried through to the recovery lounge, and no follow up call the following day as promised. As such, up to and including the op all good, whereas post-op was really quite poor. I ended up feeling like an inconvenience and in the way, and could not wait to get the hell out of recovery even though I was still dizzy. Further, the absence of any follow up discussion this deprived me of the opportunity to ask a few questions. Indeed, other than it being done by keyhole, I have no idea what type of repair was done or how it went in surgery.

Responses

Thank you for your online feedback. I am sorry to hear your post-operative recovery on the unit was not so good. It is our aim to ensure all patients, at all times are cared for to a very high standard. I would be very happy to discuss and address these concerns with you either by telephone or a meeting. I hope you are making a good recovery at home. Sister Tracey Baldwin Ward 1, Kidderminster Hospital 01562 826350